Leading CEOs and Philanthropists Unite to Combat Summer Hunger at NYSE

CEOs Unite Against Summer Hunger at NYSE

On May 7, a coalition of influential leaders gathered at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) to launch a crucial campaign aimed at ending summer hunger for children across America. Spearheaded by the No Kid Hungry initiative, this effort hopes to address a pressing issue affecting 31 million children during the summer months when access to nutritious food becomes limited.

A Symbolic Moment at NYSE

The event was marked by the symbolic ringing of the closing bell, a tradition that garnered significant attention and support. The exterior of the NYSE was adorned with bright banners promoting the cause, highlighting the collective commitment from various corporate leaders. Prominent figures such as Scott Boatwright, CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill, and Barry McGowan, CEO of Fogo de Chão, were present, underscoring their endorsement of the CEO Pledge, which commits to combat summer hunger. Over the past year, signatories to this pledge increased from 10 to 16, illustrating a growing recognition among business leaders regarding their role in social responsibility.

Anne Filipic, the CEO of Share Our Strength, the parent organization of No Kid Hungry, expressed her gratitude and optimism at the event. She stated, "All kids deserve a joyful summer, free from hunger," emphasizing the importance of corporate involvement in addressing food insecurity. This initiative not only raises awareness but also mobilizes substantial resources aimed at ensuring children have adequate nutrition year-round.

The Urgency of the Summer Meals Gap

For many children in the United States, summer represents a challenging period when meals provided at school are no longer available, leading to increased food insecurity. Previously, only 2.8 million children accessed summer meals, but with the introduction of bipartisan legislation advocated for by No Kid Hungry, more than 18 million children benefited from the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program in its first year. The USDA's initiatives like SUN Meals To-Go provide vital flexibility for communities to deliver meals, particularly in rural areas.

Scott Boatwright highlighted the pressing need to close this summer meals gap, stating, "We have a unique chance to secure cross-sector investments and collaboration so every child in America has the nutrition they need to thrive." He called upon other CEOs to join this transformative movement, illustrating the importance of collective action in addressing this critical issue.

Social Responsibility and Leadership

The CEO Pledge to End Summer Hunger is more than just a commitment; it reflects a broader understanding of corporate social responsibility among leaders. According to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, nearly 80% of individuals believe that CEOs should take initiative in addressing societal issues. By openly aligning their brands with initiatives like No Kid Hungry, these leaders leverage their influence to inspire change and raise necessary funds for programs ensuring children receive the food they need.

In attendance were additional prominent figures including Christine Barone of Dutch Bros Coffee, Paul Brown of Inspire Brands, and Jim Kelly of HedgeServ, each pledging resources and time to this important cause. This collaboration among the corporate sector highlights a significant shift toward collective efforts aimed at eradicating child hunger in America.

The Future of No Kid Hungry

The work of No Kid Hungry is far from over. With the ambitious goal of reaching every child who needs assistance, the campaign continues to seek vital funding and partnerships. By engaging schools, community organizations, and state agencies, No Kid Hungry aims to expand existing programs while forging new pathways to nutrition for vulnerable children.

As the event came to a close, the shared sentiment among business leaders was clear: an unwavering commitment against child hunger is needed not just during summer but year-round. Initiatives like the one at NYSE underscore the potential for a collaborative approach in creating a hunger-free America.

To learn more about how you can support No Kid Hungry, visit their official website at NoKidHungry.org. Together, we can ensure that no child goes hungry, ultimately creating a brighter future for all.